The sustainable office

At Buro International we are committed to creating sustainable working environments that not only have a positive impact on the environment, but also contribute to the well-being and productivity of employees. We believe that a “feel good office” can play a key role in stimulating creativity, collaboration and satisfaction among employees.

In our range we not only offer sustainable products, such as furniture made from recycled material and/or that are manufactured with minimal environmental impact, but we also look at how we can possibly get started with the furniture already present. 

Furthermore, we understand the current challenges of the "war for talent", where attracting and retaining qualified and committed employees is an essential factor for a company's success. Employees are increasingly looking for workplaces that promote their well-being and are in line with their own values. By implementing sustainable office design, an employer can distinguish itself as a company committed to the health and well-being of people, as well as a sustainable future.

Naturally, Buro International has included its own approach as a company in its Corporate Social Responsibility Statement, which can be requested via this link .

 

But how do we see the sustainable office of tomorrow?

Everything starts with the will to change and a pragmatic approach to sustainability in the workplace.

Make sustainable choices as a company and encourage sustainable behavior. For example, ensure there are sufficient separate waste bins in several places in the workplace.

As a company, be an example for external partners. Provide high-end meeting rooms with special team solutions so that relocation is not always necessary and a teams meeting can be just as efficient.

 

What should a sustainable office be designed like?

In addition to encouraging sustainable behavior and making environmentally responsible choices, the physical design of the office is a crucial aspect for sustainability and employee well-being. Sustainable office design must be carefully considered and tailored to the needs of its users. Here are some guidelines for sustainable office design:

1. Sufficient greenery, good ventilation and lighting : Integrating plants into the interior not only improves the aesthetics of the workspace, but also contributes to better air quality and reduces stress. Natural ventilation and sufficient daylight are also essential for a healthy working environment and can reduce energy consumption.
   
   
2. Sufficient personal workspaces for focused work : Although flexible workspaces are becoming increasingly popular, it is important to also provide sufficient individual workspaces where employees can concentrate and work undisturbed when necessary. Ergonomic furniture and acoustic solutions can contribute to a comfortable and productive working environment.
   
   
3. Sufficient small, medium and large collective spaces for (digital) meetings : The design of meeting rooms must be flexible and support different types of meetings, from informal brainstorming sessions to formal presentations. By investing in advanced audiovisual technologies, companies can also facilitate virtual meetings, reducing the need for physical travel.
   
   
4. Sufficient informal areas for social interaction and relaxation : Creating informal meeting places, such as lounge areas or cafeterias, encourages social interaction and promotes a positive corporate culture. These spaces can also serve as places for relaxation and recharging energy during breaks.

By taking these aspects into account when designing a sustainable office, companies can not only help reduce their environmental footprint, but also improve the well-being and productivity of their employees. A well-thought-out office design that combines sustainability and user comfort can be a powerful statement of an organization's commitment to a healthy and sustainable future.